RSD is reflexe sympathetic distrophy it is a neurological desease related to chronic pain. I had a car accident in 1998 and the ulnar nerve in my right arm was damaged. I just been diagnosed with RSD and I would like to know if someone else on the board knows something about it. I would like to sew and quilt every day but the pain slows me down.. and I am just looking at my sewing room.. :(

I know absolutely nothing about it but looked it up and perhaps this site will help. It gives suggestions of proper excersize and foods to avoid. It also has some suggestions about how to work with your physician to receive the best treatment. Good luck.

My best friend has it from an accident at work. Some days it's not too bad and other times it's really hard on her. She has had to search really hard to find a Doc. Most know little about it and try to treat the pain with meds that make her so tired she can't even function. She finally found a new one that is listening to her and helping her manage rather than trying to force his ideas. It can spread to other parts of you body as time goes by so just be aware when you get a seemingly new problem.

I have RSD...... since 2004.
Mine started from a "stupid" accident and RSD was the result of complications. Mine started in my left ankle, progressed up the leg across both hips and down the other leg. I have a Implanted Spinal Stimulator. Find your self a good pain management Dr. that has a great track record with RSD... Research him... seek out reviews. I had a terrible Dr. to begin with, but in a small town, ur kinda stuck.... Moved closer to a larger city and had to find a new Dr.. in the Fort Worth, Tx Area. and I loved him.. even after I moved to MN , I traveled back to TX to have him finish my 2nd implant. I'd be happy to talk to u more , but I will be out of contact for a few weeks...http://www.rsds.org/index2.html

my husband had RSD in addition to type One diabetes. My only siggestion is to get yourself to a specialist in RSD. We lived in Maine and went to Boston where we found a neurologist that specialised in RSD. They were able to alleviate the worst pain somewhat.

It is not for no reason that it was called "the suicide disease". For anyone who isn't cognizant -- he said it was like putting your hand on a hot stove and leaving it there.

Find out how to avoid the bone loss if possible.

The history is interesting -- first diagnosed after the Civil War in the US -- 1860s from the amputations. Now in diabetics, at least, it can happen after something as simple as a glancing hit on the corner of a counter or a deep cut/trauma.

I really want to thank you for taking time to answer back to me...My right hand lost almost all the muscles and I feel like someone is twisting my pinky finger to break it and never quit..
Now the pain is all the way to my shoulder, neck and the back right side of my head..The accident happened in 1998 ..I just would like to move on..I am taking pain med. but I don't want to depend on it..I also had block nerve and an other one is coming in February.. My faith in God keeps me moving and for sure this wonderful board!

I developed RSD following breast cancer, radiation and multiple surgeries. I had to pitch a fit to get referred to a pain center. I was placed on non-narcotic pain relievers. And am now in physical therapy which is helping greatly. I hope you are able to find some relief soon.

Thanks for answering back to me! I went for physical therapy many times and I am still going to a gym class and yoga 3 times a week. I was prescribed pain killer med. but I am so scare of becoming dependent of it ..I had block nerve at the pain center at the hospital but it is helping only for a few days..
I will keep you in my prayers and I hope you are feeling better.. :-D